With a swift swing, the golf club glides through the air, sending the ball sailing down the fairway along the majestic Province Lake. This large body of water, almost a thousand acres in size, is located in the New Hampshire Lakes region and stretches into the Maine Lakes and Mountains region. Golf enthusiasts have been drawn to the shores of this lake since the dawn of the 1900s, while others have reveled in its fish-rich waters for generations. Province Lake, which is well-known for its glistening clean waters and gorgeous surroundings, has something to offer the whole family. Province Lake stretches over a mile and three-quarters in length and just under a mile and a half in width, with a shoreline extending slightly over five miles. Located in Carroll County, New Hampshire, and a small part of northern York County, Maine, this lake boasts a boat ramp and a public beach for residents on the New Hampshire side. With 968 acres of water to explore, Province Lake is a favored spot for recreational activities such as boating, water skiing, paddling, and swimming. Province Lake has a good warm-water fishing operation, with a maximum depth of seventeen feet and an average of nine feet. This mesotrophic lake is home to healthy populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, horned pout, and yellow perch. Thankfully, Province Lake remains unmarred by invasive milfoil or other alien weeds, thanks to the diligent efforts of the Province Lake Association in safeguarding its water quality. The tranquil waters of this lake serve as a sanctuary for loons, eagles, and great blue herons.
Less than a two-hour drive from Boston lie the charming towns of Effingham and Wakefield in New Hampshire, along with Parsonsfield in Maine, where Province Lake beckons. Effingham, originally settled by the Leavitts of Hampton in 1749, was dubbed Leavittstown until its incorporation in 1778, when Governor Wentworth bestowed upon it the name Effingham, in honor of the esteemed Howard family, also known as the Earls of Effingham. Just a few years later in 1774, Wakefield was established. A tranquil haven for travelers is provided by the assortment of lodging options along Province Lake’s shoreline, which range from charming cottages to vacation rentals. For those looking to extend their stay, real estate opportunities are available in the lakeside community and its neighboring towns. With a range of amenities, from shops to eateries, including waterfront establishments, all three towns provide easy access to any comforts visitors may require. Northwest of Province Lake lies the Pine River State Forest, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts seeking to explore a blend of pine and oak forests interspersed with wetlands. Here, visitors can partake in activities like hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing along well-maintained trails and roads. From golfing against a backdrop of tranquil waters to enjoying the abundance of water activities, Province Lake offers an unforgettable getaway. Set away in the Lakes region of Maine and the Lakes and Mountains region of New Hampshire, this charming lake is sure to satisfy the needs of all members of the family. Its convenient proximity to Boston and the scenic seacoast of Maine makes Province Lake an idyllic destination for a rejuvenating vacation filled with relaxation and tranquility.